SOLD - Swedish Late Gustavian Period 1820s Two-Part Secretary with Diamond Motifs

SOLD - A Swedish Late Gustavian period two-part painted wood secretary from the early 19th century, with two doors, slant-front desk, three drawers, diamond motifs, bracket feet and nicely weathered patina. Created in Sweden at the end of the Gustavian period during the early years of the 19th century, this tall secretary features a beveled cornice sitting above two doors showcasing recessed panels accented with reeded diamond motifs typical of the style. These doors open to reveal a painted interior with nicely distressed finish, presenting inner shelves. The mid-section opens up to reveal the desk part made of a series of small drawers surrounding a central door. The lower section showcases three graduated drawers with dovetail construction, fitted with brass hardware. The sides are bare and the back is, of course, unfinished. The ensemble is resting on nicely curving bracket feet showing the subtle transition that will lead to the more ornate Karl Johan period. The secretary is painted in a soft color typical of the Swedish taste for light palettes aiming at brightening the rooms during the dark winters of Scandinavia. The Gustavian style takes its roots in the Louis XVI era. Swedish King Gustav III resided in 1771 in Paris, at the beginning stages of the Louis XVI style. There, he was inspired by French art and fashion. With that in his luggage, he had a strong desire to introduce something similar in Sweden. The country had fine craftsmen with high quality craftsmanship, who produced a simple style with harmonious aesthetics. The Gustavian style was born and has been in vogue ever since. It is incredibly popular, especially in England but also in France and in the USA. Price and age are of course inextricably linked, the older and rarer the higher the price! With its tall proportions, elegant lines and nice rustic character, this Swedish Late Gustavian two-part secretary circa 1820 will make for a wonderful addition to any living room, study or foyer!.
Place of Origin: Sweden
Period: 19th Century
Dimensions: 44.25"W x 23.25"D x 75.75"H
Inventory Number: XX126
Price: $8,950